Full Breakdown
Cody Rhodes Retains WWE Championship Against Drew McIntyre at Saturday Night's Main Event
11/2/2025, 4:05:04 AM
Match Overview and Stipulations
Cody Rhodes successfully defended his Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre at the Saturday Night's Main Event (SNME) held on November 1, 2025, at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The match featured a significant stipulation: Rhodes would lose the title if he was disqualified or counted out. This condition was added following a heated contract signing on the October 31 episode of SmackDown, where McIntyre argued that the terms were unfairly biased in Rhodes' favor.
Build-Up to the Match
The rivalry between Rhodes and McIntyre has been escalating for months, beginning with a tag team match on August 8, 2025, where McIntyre attacked Rhodes after a disqualification loss. Their animosity intensified leading up to SNME, with McIntyre seeking revenge for previous defeats, including a controversial loss at WrestlePalooza. The stakes were raised further when Rhodes was disqualified in a prior encounter, prompting McIntyre to demand the stipulation for their title match.
Match Highlights
The match itself was a back-and-forth affair, showcasing the skills and resilience of both competitors. McIntyre attempted to exploit the stipulation by baiting Rhodes into a disqualification. He executed a series of powerful moves, including a Claymore Kick and a spinebuster, while also trying to use the championship belt as a weapon. However, Rhodes countered effectively, including a DDT onto the title belt, which played a crucial role in the match's outcome.
As the match progressed, both wrestlers faced near falls, with McIntyre nearly securing victory after sending Rhodes crashing through the announce table. Despite the physical toll, Rhodes managed to recover and executed his finishing move, the Cross Rhodes, to pin McIntyre and retain his championship.
Official Statements & Responses
In the aftermath of the match, Rhodes expressed his determination to prove himself as a fighting champion, stating, "I’m here to show that nice guys can finish first." McIntyre, while disappointed, acknowledged the competitive nature of their rivalry, indicating that he would continue to pursue the championship.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts criticized the match's conclusion, suggesting that Rhodes' victory was tainted by the controversial tactics employed during the bout. Critics argue that McIntyre's character deserves better booking, especially given his status as a top performer in WWE. This sentiment raises questions about the future direction of both wrestlers in the lead-up to Survivor Series.
What's Next
Following this match, it is anticipated that the rivalry between Rhodes and McIntyre will continue, potentially leading to another title match as WWE heads toward Survivor Series. The ongoing tension suggests that fans can expect further developments in this storyline, as both wrestlers remain key figures in WWE's championship landscape.
Conclusion
Cody Rhodes' victory at Saturday Night's Main Event solidifies his position as the Undisputed WWE Champion, but the contentious nature of the match leaves the door open for future confrontations with Drew McIntyre. As WWE prepares for its next major events, the dynamics between these two stars will likely remain a focal point in the promotion's storytelling.
